The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 officially kicks off this Saturday in the United States, marking the largest edition of the tournament in history. With a new format, 32 elite teams, and a record-breaking $1 billion prize pool, FIFA hopes to create a club competition as prestigious as the men’s World Cup.
New Format, Bigger Stage
Replacing the old 7-team annual format, the new FIFA Club World Cup will now be held every four years. It mirrors the men’s FIFA World Cup format with a month-long schedule from June 15 to July 13, hosted across 11 major U.S. cities. The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
A Dress Rehearsal for 2026
As co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. sees this tournament as a major test run. Top clubs from all six confederations are participating—some as continental champions, others based on historical performance rankings.
$1 Billion on the Line
The tournament’s prize pool totals $1 billion, making it the richest club competition in history. The winning club will take home $125 million. Every team will receive a share, giving smaller clubs a chance at massive financial reward.
Challenges Already Showing
Despite the hype, FIFA Club World Cup 2025 faces early hurdles. Ticket sales are underwhelming, forcing organizers to cut prices and introduce new tiers. Some players and coaches have voiced concerns over tight schedules and match fatigue.
Europe Eyes Another Crown
European clubs remain favorites, having won 16 of the last 20 editions. Key contenders this year include:
- Manchester City
- Real Madrid
- Chelsea
- Bayern Munich
- Inter Milan
- Atlético Madrid
- Juventus
- Paris Saint-Germain
Match Schedule: Nepal Time (NPT)
- Al Ahly vs Inter Miami – June 15, 5:45 a.m.
- Bayern vs Auckland City – June 15, 9:45 p.m.
- PSG vs Atlético Madrid – June 16, 12:45 a.m.
- Palmeiras vs Porto – June 16, 3:45 a.m.
- Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders – June 16, 7:45 a.m.
- Chelsea vs LAFC – June 17, 12:45 a.m.
- Boca Juniors vs Benfica – June 17, 3:45 a.m.
- Flamengo vs ES Tunis – June 17, 6:45 a.m.
- Fluminense vs Dortmund – June 17, 9:45 p.m.
- River Plate vs Urawa Reds – June 18, 12:45 a.m.
- Ulsan vs Mamelodi Sundowns – June 18, 3:45 a.m.
- Monterrey vs Inter – June 18, 6:45 a.m.
- Man City vs Wydad AC – June 18, 9:45 p.m.
- Real Madrid vs Al-Hilal – June 19, 12:45 a.m.
- Pachuca vs RB Salzburg – June 19, 3:45 a.m.
- Al Ain vs Juventus – June 19, 6:45 a.m.
Full Schedule and Knockouts
Matchdays 2 and 3 run from June 19 to 27. The knockout stage begins June 28. Quarterfinals are on July 2 and 3, semifinals on July 8 and 9, and the final will be played on July 13.
How to Watch Live
Fans in Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia can stream all 63 matches for free on DAZN, the tournament’s official broadcaster. Only email registration is required.
In the U.S., games will air on TNT, TBS, and TruTV, with streaming on MAX, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV. Channel 5 will also show select matches, including the final.
Why This Tournament Matters
FIFA President Gianni Infantino calls the new FIFA Club World Cup a turning point for club football. Whether fans embrace this expanded version will depend on how thrilling and competitive the matches turn out to be.
